Warning: Fat Quarters May Cause Sudden Creative Energy

Why We Love Fat Quarters (and Why You Will Too!)

If you’ve spent any time browsing the shelves at Stitched Gifts, you already know: we absolutely love fat quarters! Walk through the store and you’ll see them tucked beside every bolt-neatly folded singles, curated bundles, fat-quarter-friendly patterns, and even hand-crafted gifts our creators have made using them. They’re one of the most popular fabric cuts for a reason: they let you bring home a piece of any fabric you fall in love with, and are practical, affordable, and full of creative possibility - that’s the magic of a fat quarter.

But if you’re new to the sewing world, you might be wondering…

What exactly is a fat quarter (FQ)?

A traditional quarter yard is cut straight across the width of the fabric, giving you a long, narrow piece measuring 9" x the width of fabric (usually around 42"). A “fat quarter”, on the other hand, comes from taking a full yard (36" x 42") and cutting it into four equal rectangles-each measuring about 18" x 21". It’s “fat” because it’s wider and more versatile, giving you more usable fabric for cutting shapes and working with patterns. And yes, for our math-loving friends: both versions contain exactly 378 square inches of fabric!

As we head into the holiday season - gift-giving, stocking-stuffing, maker-inspiring time - we asked our Stitched team to share their favorite fat-quarter-friendly projects. Unsurprisingly, their answers covered everything: quick gifts, beginner-friendly makes, cozy home décor, clever organizers, scrappy quilts, and adorable kid-approved crafts. If you can dream it, you can probably make it with a fat quarter (or two… or five).

Staff Favorites: Fat Quarter Projects

Here are a few of our team’s go-to makes, perfect for holiday gifting or for treating yourself to a cozy afternoon of sewing:

✨ Tara - Reusable Gift Bags

“These are my absolute favorite this time of year. One fat quarter turns into a beautiful, sustainable gift wrap option you can use again and again.”

✨ Vicki - Zipper Pouches & Makeup Bags

“Fast, functional, and great for teachers, friends, and stocking stuffers. Plus, picking the lining fabric is half the fun!”

✨ Cheryl - Hot Pads & Mug Rugs

“Pairing two coordinating FQs to make a matching kitchen set is so satisfying. Add a mug and some cocoa mix and you’ve got the perfect neighbor gift.”

✨ Sarah - Fabric Baskets

“So great for organizing crafts, desks, kids’ rooms, or holiday treats. Fat quarters give you so many options to make gorgeous mixed-and-matched sets, and explore color and pattern.”

✨ Fawn - Scrappy Table Runners

“Mix a few seasonal fat quarters and you’ve got a festive table runner in an evening. It’s beginner-friendly and looks amazing.”

✨ Lori - Quilted Ornaments

“These are quick, adorable, and a wonderful way to use tiny leftover pieces—fat quarters go a long way!”

✨ Lori - Pet Bandanas

“A fun little project that never fails to make people smile. One FQ = one very dapper dog.”

✨ Alicia - making appliqued shirts and sweatshirts from the fun seasonal prints we get at Stitched

“A fabulous way to customize clothing and be ready for any season.”

Whether you’re crafting your own heartfelt gifts this season, picking up supplies for a creative friend, or browsing our boutique for already-made treasures, fat quarters are the perfect place to start.

And, if you’re looking to learn something new, our sewing and quilting classes often feature fat-quarter-friendly projects, making them great for beginners and seasoned makers alike. Come stitch with us, meet new friends, and leave with something handmade and wonderful.

Stop by the shop this season, we’d love to help you pick out your next fat quarter stack, class, or handmade gift. Creativity is always in season here at Stitched Gifts.